Despite the Mariners encouraging start, the Phoenix were able to grab the lead as a Krishna cross was helped into the net by Sam Graham. Wellington were quick to double their tally after Krishna chipped Ben Kennedy from range 12 minutes in.

The Mariners still managed to control possession despite the score line and were desperate to try and get back in the game. In the 22nd minute, a defensive error saw Singh steal the ball and put Williams through on goal, who fired his shot into the top corner.

As the half carried on, the Yellow and Navy managed to hold on after a handful of saves from Kennedy. The Mariners were able to create some momentum in their search to pull one back, but they were hit on the counter as Krishna doubled his tally right before the break. It was 4-0 at half time.

Six minutes into the second half, Cacace fired home a Krishna cross. Singh continued his good form and featured on the scoresheet five minutes later. Shortly after, Louis Fenton made it seven for the Phoenix.

The Yellow and Navy were able to pull one back after Clisby’s shot went in off the post from distance. With 10 minutes to go, Stephen Mallon scored his first A-League goal with a well placed set piece.

The momentum stayed with the Mariners for the dying stages, with the score line looking likely to keep increasing as the game opened up. Although, the Mariners were caught out committing numbers forward and were hit on the counter as Singh made it 8-2 for the Nix.

GOALS

8’ Graham Own Goal (0-1): A dangerous cross by Krishna deflected off Graham for an own goal.

12’ Krishna Goal (0-2):Krishna chipped Ben Kennedy from range after a great over the top through ball.

22’ Williams Goal (0-3):David Williams fired into the top corner after linking up with Singh’s through ball.

45’ Krishna Goal (0-4):Burgess fed Krishna on goal and despite an initial save by Kennedy he was able to convert the rebound.